Cash strapped consumers are already burdened with the effects of a sluggish economy and a jobs bloodbath, with more than 10 million people unemployed and the situation doesn't seem likely to improve soon, with dismal forecasts for the country's economic growth.

Saftu general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi says even with inequalities and injustices, people need to remember and commemorate Workers' Day while fighting against the destruction of quality jobs for precarious forms of employment.

Saftu has thrown its weight behind the protests in Alexandra, calling on residents in other townships around the country to join the demonstration, with Zwelinzima Vavi saying that residents have been left with no other option but to take to the streets.

Saftu has joined calls for the prosecution of former Steinhoff CEO Markus Jooste after the Government Employees Pension Fund had to write off massive investments as a result of the collapse of Steinhoff’s share price last year.